Hotel Vila Recife

Hotel Vila Recife looks quaint and welcoming with its open courtyard just off a cobblestone street. Unfortunately, the interiors are a bit of a let down and in desperate need of a refurbishment. The beautiful wooden floors, detailed ceilings and walls, and arches in the lobby give the room potential, but are sadly brought down by the drab red leather sofa, shabby bookshelf, and old fashioned tube-style TV. The breakfast room has a canteen feel, and some of the indoor and outdoor seating looks a bit worn. The outdoor areas are the highlight of the hotel, though both the outdoor pool area and sun terrace on the roof lack shade and offer little more than a few worn sun loungers. This hotel mostly attracts couples and young travelers looking for budget-friendly rooms with a walkable location.

Hotel Vila Recife is centrally located to both Albufeira's lively Old Town Strip and Fisherman's Beach. There are several restaurants and cafes on the same street as the hotel, and it's a two-minute walk to the main strip's more lively atmosphere and restaurants, bars, and shops. Three of Albufeira's lovely churches are within close walking distance: Igreja de Sant'Ana (one-minute walk), Igreja de Sao Sebastiao (two-minute walk), and Igreja Matriz (two-minute walk). It's a five-minute walk to Fisherman's Beach and a 15-minute walk to Albufeira Marina. There's a bus stop within a few minutes' walk from the hotel which goes to the main bus station for the Algarve coast. Faro Airport is 35 minutes away by car.

The 92 guest rooms at Hotel Vila Recife are basic in both amenities and decor. There are only Twin Room options available, with two single beds, which is inconvenient for couples. The rooms are in need of a refurbishment; both the tiles and furniture are dated. Decor is boring and limited to matching striped bedspreads and curtains, and old-fashioned seaside-themed artwork on the walls. In-room amenities include air-conditioning, a mini-fridge, tube-style TVs, electric kettles, desks, telephones, and safes. Wi-Fi isn't available. The highlight of the rooms is the ocean and city views from small balconies -- rooms on higher floors have the best views and are quieter. Bathrooms are also a bit drab with shower/tub combo, towels, and small bars of soap.

Features are basic at Hotel Vila Recife, and guests take better advantage of its central location than the on-site amenities. The bar serves a variety of snacks and beverages and there is a breakfast room that serves a continental buffet breakfast of cereal, bread, and cold cuts, each morning -- though it's not included in all room rates and past guests have given it poor reviews. The medium-size outdoor swimming pool has a few surrounding sun loungers as well as outdoor showers, though no umbrellas. There's also a sun terrace on the roof with more worn sun loungers and a nice view over Albufeira, though there isn't any shade. A small game room is available, along with a lounge area with an internet connected computer and place where guests can store their luggage. The hotel's reception is available 24-hours and staff can assist with taxis, car rentals, and transfer bookings. Free Wi-Fi is available in the reception/bar areas.